In this webinar, we chaired a panel with special guests from across the industry on the topic of maintaining accessibility in today's short-form social media landscape.
HdK hosted an arts industry panel discussion on the challenge of ensuring accessibility in the fast-paced world of short-form social media content.
In this webinar, our special guest speakers from various arts and cultural organisations explored:
- The barriers presented by short form video content
- Is it socially responsible to participate an inherently inaccessible format?
- Can these barriers be overcome and, if so, how?
Q&A:
How can we add captions to reshared stories or reels that didn’t originally have them?
- You can use apps like Instagram’s built-in captioning tool when resharing a story or reel. If you’re happy to reupload the story with burnt-in captions, you can request the video from the owner and and then use third-party tools, such as Capcut or Canva, to add captions manually before reuploading. Alternatively, aim to write the caption as text on your shared story if space allows.
Are burnt-in captions sufficient, or should separate caption files be created?
- For accessibility, you should aim to always use burnt-in captions. On some social media platforms, burnt-in captions are often the only option. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok do allow closed captions (not burnt into the video); however, we still recommended adding burnt in captions wherever possible.
How can stories be made accessible, especially for visually impaired users?
- Stories lack built-in alt text options, but using clear, descriptive text overlays and orally naming people or items in the video can help improve accessibility. You can also do a slower version of using stories – for example, upload content later once its been edited. Social media doesn’t always have to be immediately reactive.
What are some additional, simple ways to make content more accessible?
- Video descriptions, video transcripts, content warnings, and mindful choices of non-flashing elements and high-contrast colors can enhance accessibility.
Is it enough to include image descriptions in captions, or should they also be added in alt text?
- Ideally, you would use both! Alt text is essential for screen readers, so it should always be included. Image descriptions in captions provide context for those who may not use screen readers.
How should complex or politically sensitive artwork be described in alt text?
- Collaborate with artists to ensure descriptions reflect the intended message. Aim for concise, neutral descriptions in alt text and use extended descriptions in captions if needed.
Are there tools to help create accessible alt text descriptions?
- Refer to resources like WCAG guidelines and digital accessibility organizations for best practices.
How can complex language be simplified without losing accuracy?
- Break down concepts into clear, direct terms and use analogies or examples relevant to the audience without compromising the content’s integrity. You can also add clarity through formatting, like additional lines breaks and paragraphs, bullet points, and headers.
